Letter from the Publisher
We all do it… get caught up in the busyness and sometimes even the monotony of day-to-day life. Go to work, drop the kids at school, shuttle them to activities, keep up the house, put food on the table, and the list could go on.
This is our reality, and if we are honest with ourselves, this is safe. We can feel more in control when every part of our life is scheduled. We know where we need to be and when we need to be there. There is no room for ambiguity. Being creative may entail getting three kids to three different activities at the same time. And when someone asks us how our day or week has been going, we give the all-too-common response, “It’s busy.”
But what if we set aside part of our day, our week, or even our year to explore? What if we could do that right here in our backyard or our very own community? What if we let someone else plan our next trip, so instead of getting caught up in the details, we could get lost in the experience?
Often, things don’t go quite as we envision when we explore. One thing Amy and I will always remember from our honeymoon was much like this. We rented a car to explore the island of Cozumel, and though the exploration was great, it was the part we couldn’t have planned for that we will never forget. When we got to the far end of the island, we couldn’t get the car to start. Picture two young newlyweds trying mightily to start this old rental, communicating to restaurant staff that we needed to make a phone call when we didn’t speak the same language, and then to top it all off, getting caught in the rain as we tried to get the T-top cover back on. We were soaked by the time we received our replacement vehicle, but we had a story of adventure to share for years to come!
Summer is a great time to explore Nebraska! We hope that reading this issue will inspire you to explore, and who knows, maybe you will unexpectedly create a memory that will last a lifetime in the process!
Happy Exploring!
KYLER HENDRICKSON, PUBLISHER @PAPILLIONCITYLIFESTYLE
July 2025
PUBLISHER
Kyler Hendrickson | kyler.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Amy Hendrickson | amy.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Amanda Mills | amanda.mills@citylifestyle.com
COPY EDITOR
Kristen Muldoon
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Kathy Nickerson, Janette Calabro, Deb Reinard, Vince Mancuso, Angela Broockerd
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
A2i Photography, Sammie Rodriguez, Joseph Saaid, Janie Jones
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Andi Foster
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Hannah Leimkuhler
When your child continues to develop their math skills, you can rest easy knowing they’re on track for a successful school year. Mathnasium gives students the instruction they need to reinforce what they’re learning in school, work on concepts that may pose a challenge, and take their math knowledge to the next level. In other words, we got this.
Adventure awaits on scenic trails, treetop canopies, and hands-on outdoor fun for all ages. Savor fresh, locally inspired meals, then unwind with an overnight stay at Lied Lodge—featuring guest-only access to our indoor pool. Start your adventure at arbordayfarm.org.
@arbordayfarm @arbordaywedding
2700 Sylvan Road | Nebraska City, Nebraska arbordayfarm.org
JULY 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Monarchs crossed the stage with pride, ready to take on the world after graduation. 2: Seventy dancers from Acapriccio Dance Company shared a magical performance experience at Walt Disney World. 3: Titans walked the stage with honor, celebrating years of hard work and unforgettable memories. 4: Papillion Library hosted a Wildlife Encounter event. 5: Rob Cordray and Andrea Hurt represented Team Red, White and Blue at American Heroes Marathon. 6: Runners took on the Papillion Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, showing strength and community spirit. 7: Pancakes and generosity were shared at Papillion Downtown Business Association’s community breakfast and food drive.
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PAPILLION LA VISTA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
PAPILLION LA VISTA COMMUNITY SCHOOLS
JEREMY KINSEY
JOEY SEARS
JOEY SEARS
LEESHA WALKUP
BRITTNY ESCAMILLA
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Indigo Cottage Crafts: Crafting Joy in Papillion
Indigo Cottage Crafts is Papillion’s full-service arts and crafts studio, offering workshops, classes, walk-in hours, and private events with a creative twist. Guests enjoy hands-on fun—like guided painting, polymer clay, and a one-of-a-kind Spatter Zone—plus cocktails, mocktails, and snacks from the in-studio bar. Founded by Army veteran Brandy Prettyman, the Cottage is a place to connect, create, and celebrate. Call 402.315.9469 to schedule a visit today!
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City Park Renovation in Downtown Papillion has Begun
Following Papillion Days, construction has begun to renovate Papillion’s City Park. Improvements include an improved trail network, new playground areas, new stage and shelter for picnics and performances, improved parking and traffic flow, seating areas, and a grand entrance at the corner of Washington and Lincoln streets. The groundbreaking occurred following Papillion Days 2025 with the goal of the park being completed by the start of Papillion Days 2026.
ALLO Fiber Recognized as a 2025 VETS Indexes 5-Star Employer
ALLO Fiber has been honored as a 2025 VETS Indexes 5-Star Employer for the second consecutive year. The award recognizes organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to recruiting, hiring, retaining, developing and supporting veterans, National Guard and Reserve members, and military spouses. ALLO is one of just 294 organizations nationwide to receive this recognition. With 210 veteran employees, ALLO continues to foster an inclusive, supportive workplace for those who have served our country. Learn more at AlloFiber.com/Allo-Veterans
Photography by David Sacco
Photography by ALLO Fiber
EMBRACE YOUR PIONEER
ARTICLE BY JANETTE CALABRO PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMMIE RODRIGUEZ
Portal School House
In a city park close to the middle of Papillion, the glimpse of an 1860s farmhouse stands strong. The John Sautter Farmhouse sprawled over 800 acres during its heyday with cattle, grassland, a vineyard, and three hundred apple trees! The old German American farmhouse was occupied from construction in the 1860s until about 1916, when it was used for storage and butchering. Next door, the historic Portal School depicts a slice of life for those who want to experience how education worked in a oneroom schoolhouse over a century ago.
The Sautter Farmhouse wasn’t always in the middle of a park. The original house was built one mile north of Papillion. The Papillion Area Historical Society (PAHS) was organized in 1979 to save the historic home. The society successfully relocated the Sautter House to its current location, and in 1980, the landmark site became a property of the National Register of Historic Places.
CONTINUED >
Sautter House Dining Room
Sautter House
Sautter House bedroom
Cindy Mahanes, PAHS Vice President, believes history is valuable, and preserving a segment of history helps us understand who we are today.
“We all know there are reasons to love Papillion,” says Mahanes. “We appreciate the past. That’s part of what makes Papillion so special. To show what life was like, we preserve the past.”
She recommends the website papillionhis tory.com for a peek at how to connect generations through history. An impressive event lineup occurs all year with farmer’s markets (May 21 - August 6), a “Fall for Papillion” day to celebrate the history of Papillion, the “Gingerbread Stroll,” and a festive “Winter Wonderland.” Visitors can step into history one event at a time.
“We’re trying to reach out to Papillion and say, ‘this is a great little place,’” says Mahanes, who admits she very much needs volunteers. “We want kids and families to look forward to building experiences every year. Our forefathers gave us a great starting point, which we built upon. Papillion is cited as one of the best places to live in the country!”
Mahanes loves the kids’ faces when they tour the Sautter house with wide eyes, amazed that oil lamps were used for light, fireplaces the only heat source, and instead of refrigerators, iceboxes kept food cold with a block of ice.
“We can read about history all day long, but when you touch the things families did, and see how they lived, it’s different. It brings history to life.”
Mahanes invites everyone to share a piece of history by touring the Sautter Farmhouse and Portal School. After all, the best place to live embraces the pioneer spirit that lives in each of us.
Portal School House
IT’S TIME TO TRAVEL
ARTICLE BY KATHY NICKERSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY A2I PHOTOGRAPHY
Veronica Bird is a wife, mother, certified fitness instructor, and coffee enthusiast. She also sends people to Disney World and beyond. She and her family live in Papillion and love to travel. That interest led her to become an advisor with Fora Travel.
Since most people can book a hotel room with a tap of their finger, it is tempting to think Bird’s job is obsolete. But she has good news about that. Not only does she remove the hassle from traveling, but her services are free. And she offers several benefits.
“I get all the online discounts,” she says. “Plus, I have personal connections at resorts, hotels, and cruise lines. I can often get extra perks for my clients or find a better rate. Even after we have booked a trip, I keep tabs. If the price drops, I usually get clients the better rate.”
Her work isn’t done once a client departs, either. If things go wrong on the trip, she is quick to answer her phone and help with logistics. Best of all, Bird can advise many of her clients from personal experience.
If she hasn’t visited a client’s dream destination, she
Save time, trouble, and money when you work with local travel advisor Veronica Bird
probably knows a colleague who has. It’s like being friends with the locals who know all the best spots to eat, stay, and play.
Bird likes to meet with clients and ask what experience they want during their trip. She is happy to help with everything from a one-night stay at a local hotel to a months-long visit overseas. When asked her best advice for people considering travel, Bird says the answer is easy. “Life is short. Take the trip.”
402.957.5171 | foratravel.com/advisor/veronica-bird
Who Needs a Travel Advisor?
• Brides and grooms: For destination weddings, honeymoons, or housing outof-town guests
• Traveling teams: For hotels and meals in every city on the dance or sports tour
• Parents with kids: For camping, cruising, a trip to Disney, or the best seats in the local stadium
• Family reunions: For the venue, catering, housing, transportation, and group rates at places of interest
• Retirees: For a trip around the world or a quiet hotel in the city where the grandchildren live
• Business owners: For team building trips, hosting clients, executive travel, and the best rates for sales teams
• Churches: For youth camps, ministry retreats, or mission outreach trips
• Friend groups: For out-of-town vacations or weekend gatherings in the city
One Tile
ARTICLE BY VINCE MANCUSO PHOTOGRAPHY BY SAMMIE RODRIGUEZ
The work of B.Y. Solutions
at a Time
When it comes to home upgrades that truly make an impact, Bryan Bolanos of B.Y. Solutions LLC believes it’s all about floors and accent pieces. For three years, his Papillion-based company has been helping homeowners transform their living spaces with expert tilework and flooring solutions.
“Our main thing is tile,” Bolanos says. “Bathrooms, backsplashes, any kind of floor—we do it all.” B.Y. Solutions has steadily built a reputation for quality work and personalized service from new construction projects to basement remodels.
Bryan Bolanos (owner) with wife Cynthia Y. Balmori (office manager)
Tile remains a favorite among builders and homeowners, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. Recognizing tile as an investment, Bolanos says the payoff is worth it for many homeowners because “it looks good. Just changing the floors is going to make a huge difference!”
Trends shift with time, and Bolanos shares an uptick in requests for modern finishes like white tile with grey veining, especially in showers and bathroom floors. As for kitchens, he often recommends small porcelain tiles for backsplashes in tighter spaces, while large slab tiles work beautifully in more open layouts.
Another more recent trend is Bryan’s favorite challenge: heated floors.
“Recently, I did 1,200 square feet of tile in a basement. It looks nice, and it’s going to last forever.” These installations require precision: after laying mortar and dirt, heat cables run beneath the tile and connect to a thermostat.
“Whatever someone wants, I can make it happen. When the customer is happy, that’s like pay for me.”
“It can go from 60 to 85 degrees,” he explains. “It’s pretty cool, but you must be careful to ensure it is installed properly.”
Heated floors are also gaining popularity in master bedroom-to-bathroom transitions, where homeowners find them warmer and more stylish than carpet.
Whatever the space, Bolanos keeps his priorities simple: “Whatever someone wants, I can make it happen. When the customer is happy, that’s like pay for me.”
“Your happiness is my priority. That’s my motto,” says Bolanos. A motto that will keep him turning everyday homes into stunning showcases for years to come—one tile at a time.
Photo Credit: Bryan Bolanos
Photo credit Iris Images
RED LOTUS SPEAKS THE LANGUAGE of the Heart
RED LOTUS THAI EXPRESS FEATURES AUTHENTIC THAI CUISINE YOU’LL LOVE
ARTICLE BY DEB GRAYSON REINARD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSEPH SAAID
With roots planted deep in their homeland of Thailand, Anan and Roong Tavornsak are proud of their beautiful Red Lotus blooming on the Nebraska prairie.
Red Lotus Thai Express, serving many of the original recipes Roong carried from Thailand in her notebook, brings an exquisite oriental flavor to the corner of 72nd St and Highway 370.
Located at 1449 Papillion Dr, Suite 103, Roong’s menu features its original Crispy Garlic Chicken, the ever-popular Pad Thai, Peanut Butter Chicken, and much more. Roong said their dishes are not like everyone else’s.
“Ours is just a little different. It’s a special secret ingredient,” she said.
Roong said that their special touch, along with years of experience, culminated in the Best Restaurant award from Sarpy County Tourism.
“We’ve been in the United States for 20 years now,” Anan said. “We spent 12 years working in restaurants in Las Vegas, one year in Montana learning how to run a commercial kitchen, and now seven years in Nebraska.”
Red Lotus Thai Express is mainly takeout, and Roong is proud that nearly all of the ingredients are locally sourced and that each order is individually made fresh and seasoned with love.
“For several years, we owned Sweet Rice Thai Food Truck, and now we’re happy to open Red Lotus Thai Express in the wonderful community of Papillion,” Roong said.
“I love to cook and I’m a good cook,” Roong said. “I opened that notebook, and it’s like a dream come true. Here we are, our Red Lotus in Papillion,” Roong said.
Sponsored
by
Debbie Meyer Real Estate Agent
Station One, Papillion Fire Department
On the western edge of town, Fire Station One has served as a vital part of the Papillion Fire Department since 2014. Though it’s the youngest of the city’s stations, its team is rich in experience, commitment, and heart.
Known for more than emergency response, Station One’s crew is actively involved in community outreach. Each summer, they lead Fire Safety Camp, offering kids hands-on experiences like CPR training, water safety, and fire prevention in a fun-filled setting. They also host hydrant parties, participate in Craft Club at the Papillion Public Library, and support educational visits across the city.
“I consider it a privilege to lead courageous, compassionate members who desire to give the best service possible to the community they protect..”
— Robb Gottsch, Papillion Fire Chief
The firefighters at Station One are more than first responders—they’re neighbors, mentors, and community leaders. With their quiet consistency and readiness to serve, they embody the spirit of Papillion every single day.
Submit a hometown hero nomination to: kyler.hendrickson@citylifestyle.com
Sponsored by Debbie Meyer, BHHS Realtor
JULY 2025
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 12TH
Casting for a Cause
Public waters in the Omaha Metro Area | 6:00 AM
Join Heartland Kayak Anglers for a bass tournament benefiting the Nebraska Cancer Specialists Hope Foundation. Fish Omaha Metro public waters starting at 6:00 AM in this catch-photo-release event. Submit your best five bass, then enjoy a free family event and awards ceremony at 2:00 PM at Pint Nine & Kros Strain. Entry is $55. Details: ncshope foundation.org/casting-for-a-cause
JULY 13TH
Storm Chasers Papillion & Springfield Community Day
Werner Park | 2:00 PM
Celebrate community spirit with the Storm Chasers during Papillion and Springfield Community Day, presented by Leonard Management McDonald's. Enjoy a Family Funday featuring a balloon artist (thanks to Nebraska Medicine) and let the kids run the bases after the game, courtesy of the YMCA of Greater Omaha. Fun starts at Werner Park—grab your tickets now: https://www.milb.com/omaha/ tickets/promotions
JULY 18TH
Cones with Cops
Papillion Dairy Queen | 3:00 PM
Cool down and connect with local officers at Cones with Cops! Join the Papillion Police Department at Dairy Queen (345 S Washington) on Thursday, July 18 from 3:00-5:00 PM Enjoy a sweet treat and friendly conversation.
Shift A: Marty Price, Patrick Neville, Captain Kevin Eischeid, James Engberg, Rob. Osborne, Jason Banks
JULY 22ND
Marvelous Moths with Nebraska Game & Parks
Papillion Public Library | 6:00 PM
Join Nebraska Game & Parks at Sump Memorial Library from 6:00-7:30 PM for an evening dedicated to moths! Families will enjoy activities, educational stations, and outdoor observation (weather permitting). Discover how these nocturnal pollinators support the ecosystem and how to spot them at home. Register at papillionpubliclibrary.org
JULY 26TH
Weeder Pediatric Dentistry Family Fun Day
Weeder Pediatric Dentistry, 10723 Hillcrest Plaza, La Vista | 9:00 AM
Celebrate Weeder Pediatric Dentistry’s new office with a morning of fun and smiles! Meet Dr. Weeder, Dr. Buss, and the team, tour the new space, enjoy outdoor games, win prizes, and grab refreshments. This exciting event is open to the entire community so come join in on the fun!
AUGUST 2ND
Family Fun Night at SumTur Amphitheater
SumTur Amphitheater | 7:30 PM
Enjoy a fun-filled evening with live music and a movie under the stars! The String Beans take the stage at 8:00 PM with a lively, family-friendly concert full of original songs and silly antics. After the show, stick around for a screening of Inside Out 2! Free admission, open to all.
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ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Summer is here and what better way to quench your thirst than with drinks crafted from the season’s fresh produce? Embrace the natural sweetness of sun-ripened fruits and the invigorating zest of garden-fresh herbs. From crisp berry infusions to fragrant herbal blends, enjoy the art of crafting delicious and revitalizing beverages that celebrate the fresh flavors of summer.
This sangria emphasizes fresh garden herbs and the sweetness of seasonal berries.
Ingredients:
• 1 bottle wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Garnacha)
• ½ cup brandy or rum
• ½ cup elderflower liqueur
• 1 cup sparkling water
• 1 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup fresh raspberries
• ½ cup fresh blueberries
• ¼ cup fresh mint leaves
• 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced (optional)
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
Instructions:
In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, brandy (or rum), and elderflower liqueur. Stir gently to mix. Add the sliced strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, mint leaves, rosemary sprigs, and cucumber slices to the pitcher. Gently muddle the berries and herbs slightly to release their flavors. Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld. Just before serving, add the sliced lime and sparkling water or club soda. Stir gently. Serve the sangria over ice, ensuring each glass gets a mix of fruit and herbs.
&BERRY SANGRIA
ROSEMARY GRAPEFRUIT PEAR FIZZ
LIME MINT
ROSE MOJITO
This cocktail balances the tartness of grapefruit, the sweetness of pear, and the distinct notes of rosemary, all brought together with a bubbly finish.
Ingredients:
• 2 oz Gin (or Vodka)
• 1.5 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1 oz Pear Liqueur (or Pear Juice)
• 0.75 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1 sprig of Rosemary
• Sparkling water
• Garnish: Rosemary sprig, grapefruit slice, pear slice
Instructions:
Place the rosemary sprig in a cocktail shaker. Lightly muddle the rosemary to release its oils. Add the gin (or vodka), grapefruit juice, pear liqueur and lime juice to the shaker. Add ice. Shake well until thoroughly chilled. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass filled with ice. Top with sparkling water or Prosecco. Garnish with a rosemary sprig, a grapefruit slice, and a pear slice.
A Lime Mint Rose Mojito adds a floral twist to the classic mojito, creating a refreshing and elegant cocktail. Here’s a recipe that balances the traditional lime and mint with the delicate aroma of rose.
Ingredients:
• 10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 tablespoons white sugar (or simple syrup, to taste)
• 2 ounces white rum
• 1 ounce rose water (adjust to taste, as it can be potent)
• Club soda or sparkling water
• Garnish: Mint sprigs, lime wedges, edible rose petals (optional)
Instructions:
Muddle:
Place the mint leaves and lime wedges in a glass. Add sugar. Use a muddler to gently crush the mint and lime. Pour the white rum and rose water into the glass. Stir well. Fill the glass with ice. Top with club soda or sparkling water. Stir gently. Garnish with a mint sprig, a lime wedge, and, if desired, edible rose petals.
